Translation and Meaning of: 大げさ - oogesa

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 大げさ (oogesa) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: oogesa

Kana: おおげさ

Type: Adjective

L: jlpt-n1

大げさ

Translation / Meaning: grandiose; exaggerated

Meaning in English: grandiose;exaggerated

Definition: Something that goes beyond normality. Exceptionally big and flashy.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (大げさ) oogesa

The Japanese word 「大げさ」 (oogesa) is often used to describe something or someone as exaggerated or dramatic. The etymology of the expression can be understood through the two kanji characters that compose it. The first kanji, 「大」 (oo), means 'big'. The second kanji, 「げさ」 (gesa), derives from an expression that can relate to actions or behavior, especially in a context involving amplification or exaggeration. Thus, by combining the two characters, it forms a concept that captures the essence of something that is 'greatly exaggerated'.

In practice, 「大げさ」 is a na-adjective that can be applied to various situations, from a description of human behavior to the storytelling of events. For example, it is common to use the expression to describe someone who is glorifying or dramatizing particularities of a situation beyond what is necessary, equivalent to calling something a storm in a teacup. The word is widely used in both informal and formal levels of the language, standing out for its applicability and expressive weight.

The cultural and historical origin of the term refers to artistic and theatrical forms of expression from Japan, where exaggeration was often used to emphasize emotions and convey dramatic impact clearly to the audience. This style, known for its exaggerated gestures and facial expressions, influenced the adoption of terms that denoted this characteristic in everyday life. Thus, 「大げさ」 not only reflects cultural traits but also enriches the Japanese language in terms of expressiveness. In summary, the use of the word suggests a semantic universe that involves intensity and dramatic character, being a powerful and effective linguistic resource in describing seemingly impressive or grand scenarios.

Synonyms and similar words

誇張 (Kochou) - Exaggeration, embellishment, or overstatement in description
大袈裟 (Oogesa) - Exaggerated, grandiose, or dramatic in behavior or speech
大げさな (Oogesa na) - Exaggerated, used as an adjective to describe something that is excessive.
大げさに (Oogesa ni) - Exaggeratedly, often used to describe the manner of action or expression.
大げさなことを言う (Oogesa na koto o iu) - To say something exaggerated means to make a statement that is not true.
大げさに言う (Oogesa ni iu) - To say it in an exaggerated way can indicate exaggeration in a statement or account.
大げさに演出する (Oogesa ni ensutsu suru) - To produce or stage in an exaggerated manner, often used in an artistic context.
大げさに表現する (Oogesa ni hyougen suru) - Express in an exaggerated manner, emphasizing feelings or the situation.
大げさに見せかける (Oogesa ni misekakeru) - To pretend or make it seem exaggerated, as if something were more significant than it really is.
大げさに装う (Oogesa ni yosoou) - To dress or act in an exaggerated manner, emphasizing the visual.
大げさに描く (Oogesa ni kaku) - To paint or illustrate in an exaggerated way, highlighting elements in a dramatic manner.
大げさに強調する (Oogesa ni kyouchou suru) - Emphasize in an exaggerated manner, highlighting a specific aspect dramatically.
大げさに言い過ぎる (Oogesa ni ii sugiru) - Exaggerating too much, implying that the speech is excessive and not true.
大げさに言い立てる (Oogesa ni iitateru) - Insist or affirm repeatedly in an exaggerated manner, emphasizing the words.
大げさに言い張る (Oogesa ni iiharu) - Insisting insistently and exaggeratedly, holding a position dramatically.
大げさに言い訳する (Oogesa ni ii wake suru) - To give an exaggerated excuse, often in an unconvincing manner.
大げさに言い逃れる (Oogesa ni ii nogareru) - Avoiding responsibilities in an exaggerated manner, often without valid arguments.